I’ve blogged about runners who race and runners who don’t, and recently I’ve become a sort of lost runner. Not training for anything and just spontaneously participating in a 5k every once in awhile.
When I was doing some speed work last week, something clicked.
I need to train for something. I need a goal.
I’m competitive. I’m competitive with myself. And lately, I’m sorry to say, I’ve been a little down on myself. I let myself get slow and need a kick in the butt to get going again.
This year I’m running the Suffolk County Half Marathon. Last year I ran the full marathon as a comeback race my first full season after having baby #2. For the second time I was 2 minutes short of qualifying for Boston, so I definitely have unfinished marathon business, but that’s just not my goal right now. I haven’t run a half marathon in a while and think it’s a perfect fall goal. My current half marathon PR is 1:43 and I’d love to come close to that. Right now my paces are nowhere near where they need to be, so I’m excited to see my progress as I train.
I’ve already started following a Paleo diet (this has to do with the husband and his little journey–updates to follow!) and being consistent and purposeful in my training–and I’ve seen progress in just about 2 weeks.
I’m going to be mapping out my specific training plan, and like I usually do, it will likely be 3 days a week based on my fave Run Less, Run Faster. I’m already loosely following the plan as I’m trying to build a little base.
I’m excited to have a goal, especially because I know I have a long road ahead of me.
Why do you race? Camaraderie? Competition? Personal goals?
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I used to have to have a race as my goal…now I do a lot more than running – body pump, goal is to hit 40 lbs on the back track! Running – get 100 miles in August! Rest days – strive for 2 days, mandatory 1 a week!
sarah@creatingbettertomorrow recently posted…How You Can Make Time For Fitness
Great specific goals! Good luck!
I totally hear you about needing a goal. I thrive on goals. Ever since my half marathon this spring I have been kinda goal-less. I just signed up for an 18 mile race with like 5 weeks to go….talk about needing to get my butt in gear haha!
Annmarie recently posted…DVRT Total Body Blast Park Bench Workout
Lol! Sometimes that’s just what you need!
I’m kind of in the same boat! I have a half coming up in October so I’m trying to really get into the groove with training. It’s been 2 years since I raced a half. I’m not sure I remember how to do it! Lol!
Angela @ happy fit mama recently posted…Would You Rather…
Seriously! I don’t even remember my last half, lol.
I used to race in order to justify my training, lol. Otherwise, people would look at me like I am crazy (well, you know). Now I race so that my hubs and I can be running buddies! But with this crazy hip thing going on, who knows how much longer that will last.
Susie @ Suzlyfe recently posted…Building Your Fitness Support System (ACTIVEx Review)
I feel you on being a “lost runner”! It’s hard to get motivated without goals. I have a half marathon planned for December, but while I attempt to get my PF to calm down, I’m taking it easy on the road and I’m not liking it at all!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home recently posted…Running Captivated
Hope that feels better soon! I never thought I needed a race, but apparently I do!
I like/need to have something to train for all the time too to keep my motivated. Wow missing Boston time by 2 min is tough. Look forward to watching you crush that goal 🙂 Thanks for the link up today
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner recently posted…Raise The Barre With The New Platform Class
Thanks! I’ll try to tackle the marathon again another time!
I really do best with a goal as well. I like having flexibility of having no race on the schedule but it doesn’t get you to work near as hard. Good luck with training.
Jen @ Pretty Little Grub recently posted…Mixed Berry Muffin Protein Smoothie and a Giveaway
Thanks! Hopefully it will give me some extra focus!
Are we the same person? Sounds like we have some similar goals. I also love the Run Less, Run Faster plan, which is why I had my new coach make me a 3-day-a-week schedule :). Paleo is also the best! I’m excited to follow your progress. GO us!
Nicole @ Fitful Focus recently posted…August 2016 Goals
I’m loving Paleo so far! My husband is embarking on a challenge so I’m being supportive 😉
Wow, this sounds awesome! I love having a race to look forward to to keep motivated. Look forward to following along!
Janelle @ Run With No Regrets recently posted…PlateJoy Customized Meal Planning Review and Giveaway!
Thanks Janelle! I love following your training 🙂
I totally get the “lost runner” feeling without a goal. It doesn’t have to be a race goal necessarily, but there has to be SOMEthing to motivate me.
Hannah recently posted…High support sports bras for small band sizes
So true! I suppose the race is just a good way to measure it…holds me accountable!
I need a goal too… I got a little “lost” early this summer without a goal race to train for.
vicki recently posted…Summer’s Bounty Salad
I always look forward to your running posts. I race for personal goals and because I love it. It’s the energy! Surrounded by so many people that shares a love of running.
Have a wonderful weekend Michelle!
jill conyers recently posted…4 Reasons You’re Having a Hard Time with Mindfulness
I also need a goal for improving my health. I will try to join a traning club to gain my goal.
Derek A. Greene recently posted…Rules of the Game: When does Softball Season Start?
Everything we do need to be setting a goal to achieve, I love your blog Michelle
Thanks so much!
I have a feeling of “lost runner” too. One time, I almost gave it up. But the goal saved me. It’s better if we have something to achieve. Thanks for such a motivation post. Love your blog!
Bobby C. Nickles recently posted…The Best 10 Exercises For Hamstrings And Glutes Without Equipment
I think if you have a goal for running you will get the good result. I have tried my best and it has a nice goal.
Michael recently posted…5 best foods for weight loss: cheap and effective